Café Cultures: An Analytical Framework

Abstract

What are some major café cultures, and why do they vary? We outline three levels of ideas as an interpretative framework for café cultures. At level one are ideal types like the convivial or the solitary worker in cafes. At level two are propositions about scenes including cafes: 15 scenes dimensions variously favor or shift the types of café values and activities. Third are propositions about the broader social context. We point to factors discouraging cafés in general, like Puritanism, a strong work ethic, and crime; other propositions identify Bohemianism and strong families as shifting café activities and cultures.